46 Elm Street - Pre-Application
Gallery
Project details
What is proposed
Sunrise Bagel (applicant: Ryan Lopes) proposes to convert the existing vacant commercial building at 46 Elm Street into a bagel bakery and café. The project is an interior fit‑out and adaptive reuse of the existing structure rather than new construction; the application lists the building area as 2,616 square feet on a 0.277‑acre parcel in the C (Commercial) zoning district.
Where and how big
The property is located at 46 Elm Street (Assessor Map 53, Lot 59). The site previously operated as an auto service use and is currently vacant. The applicant proposes exterior and signage improvements consistent with the Elm Street corridor but does not propose a change to the building footprint.
Scope of work and operations
The buildout will equip the space for bakery production and public service: commercial ovens, mixers, proofing/fermentation equipment, code‑compliant plumbing, electrical, ventilation/hood systems, and grease management. Front‑of‑house improvements will include a counter and café seating for breakfast and lunch service. Proposed hours mirror the applicant's existing locations: early morning through midafternoon (typically 6:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.), seven days a week. The applicant projects creation of roughly 10–15 local jobs.
Planning and timeline
Pre‑application materials and a business plan were submitted in July–August 2026; a Site Plan Review application was filed with the Planning Board in August 2026. The applicant states they are in active lease negotiations for the property and anticipates a 4–6 month buildout after permitting, targeting an opening by the end of 2026. The site plan application indicates "Other Permits Required: NONE" as provided by the applicant.
Special considerations
Because the proposal is an interior adaptation of an existing commercial building rather than new construction, the applicant has requested Planning Board guidance on submission requirements and possible waivers or modifications of site‑plan standards intended primarily for new development.
